Warning: This article may contain spoilers from Andor Episode 11
Andor returned this week with the penultimate episode of its first season. Episode 11, titled “Daughter of Ferrix” is the first of the two-part finale, and can most easily be described as the “calm before the storm.” With a lot of setup in place, director Benjamin Caron and writer/showrunner Tony Gilroy paint a great picture of what’s to come, and how the first season of this limited series will conclude. Let’s dive into the review.
“Daughter of Ferrix” is titled after Maarva Andor (Fiona Shaw), who has passed away in the time since we’ve last seen her. The city is in mourning, as we see the impact that Maarva had during her time on the planet. But the character we follow the most is B2-EMO, voiced by Dave Chapman, who delivers a stellar performance. Bee’s mourning will leave your heart aching.
Per tradition, Maarva will be cremated, her ashes being incorporated into a brick which will be used to add to the city’s growth and prosperity. Despite Imperial interference, Dedra Meero (Denise Gough), let’s the funeral proceed, as she feels that it will tell them much about the Ferrix culture, and potentially expose any threats.
While highly unlikely due to the style and tone that Tony Gilroy has presented with this series, there may be more afoot on Ferrix. While Maarva’s illness had been discussed, her sudden passing comes as a shock, particularly with such a powerhouse actress like Fiona Shaw playing the character. Maarva had spoken at length about her passion for rebellion, and her rebellious activities have been teased. Couple that with the mystery surrounding the Daughters of Ferrix group and you may find a surprise reappearance from Maarva in the finale.
Cassian (Diego Luna) and Melshi (Duncan Pow), meanwhile, spend the majority of their time on screen escaping the clutches of the Empire. With the help of some locals, the two are able to escape on a quadjumper starship, and return to Niamos, where Cassian left his stash of credits and weapons. Despite being the titular character, this episode really highlights the surrounding cast, pulling each of their storylines towards the same point. Cassian’s journey in Episode 11 ends with him receiving the news about his mother. Parting ways with Melshi, Cassian embarks back to Ferrix, completely unaware of what’s waiting for him.
Speaking of the supporting cast, Luthen (Stellan Skarsgård), Syril Karn (Kyle Soller), and Mon Mothma (Genevieve O’Reilly) are all approaching their breaking points as they are being pulled toward the finale. For Luthen, he must embrace the impending sacrifice of Anto Kreegyr and confront Saw Gerrera (Forest Whitaker) about the situation. Luthen’s pressing of the Empire has put him at risk, culminating in a long-awaited space battle with his Fondor Haulcraft. The battle did not disappoint, leaving fans with a taste of the action to come in the finale. Now somewhat exposed to the Empire, it will be interesting to see where he must go now to protect his network.
Approaching the finale, Andor has done an excellent job setting up key characters, their roles not only in this universe but also in this story. Cassian, our protagonist, will be returning to Ferrix where the Empire, a mentally depleted Bix (Adria Arjona), Cinta (Varada Sethu) and Vel (Faye Marsay) and Syril Karn will be waiting for him. Luthen may need to get his own hands dirty to get ahold of Cassian and protect his own name, and don’t be shocked if Saw Gerrera and his team get into the mix as well. Finally, Mon Mothma is at her own breaking point, as it feels her story will come to a head with the giving away of her daughter for marriage in order to protect herself and the rebellion.
Andor has continued to shape itself up as some of the best Star Wars content we’ve ever had. As the season finale approaches next week, I am equally excited and saddened to see this show go.
What did you think of Episode 11 of Andor? What’re you most anticipating? Let us know in the comments below or on our social media pages.
You must be logged in to post a comment.